"Asian superstar" Son Heung-min (34, LAFC) challenges the reign of the "god of soccer" Lionel Messi (39, Inter Miami).
LAFC will face defending champion Inter Miami in the 2026 MLS season opener on Feb. 22 at home in Los Angeles at BMO Stadium.
From the opening match, the biggest showdown between Son Heung-min and Messi has been set. Son Heung-min, who created the biggest sensation in MLS last season, and Messi, the "god of soccer," will face each other for the first time on American soil.
Last year, Son Heung-min's performance at LAFC was evaluated as an event that shook the entire MLS landscape beyond mere on-field performance. Lionel Messi has ruled as the absolute force in the league while leading Inter Miami. Son Heung-min, in his first season, displayed dazzling scoring and influence, placing him in a position directly comparable to Messi.
The U.S. edition of AS praised, "U.S. media have hailed Son Heung-min as the only superstar who can challenge Messi's dominance in MLS. After moving to LAFC, Son Heung-min established himself as the center of the attack with 12 goals in just 13 matches. Son Heung-min's scoring is considered by no means inferior to Messi's," offering high praise.
In terms of attendance and ticket sales, Son Heung-min's effect was a huge success. BMO Stadium, LAFC's home, sold out for Son Heung-min's home debut against San Diego FC. Annual ticket sales also surpassed 1 million, cementing the venue as Los Angeles' top sports and entertainment stadium.
In particular, due to Son Heung-min there has been simultaneous expansion of regional and international revenue through the influx of the local Korean American community in the LA area and global fans. Meanwhile, Messi is maximizing nationwide fan base and commercial value within the United States. Son Heung-min has the strength of solidifying a specific regional fan base while also absorbing a global fandom.
U.S. outlet "Athlon Sports" focused attention, saying, "The 2026 MLS season will be a two-horse race between Lionel Messi's Inter Miami and Son Heung-min's LAFC. 2025 MLS Cup champion Inter Miami and Son Heung-min's LAFC are scheduled to face off in the 2026 season opener. The venue is LAFC's home, BMO Stadium. League superstars Lionel Messi and Son Heung-min will collide head-on from the opener."
Son Heung-min also said, "Last year I let Messi win, but this year will be different. We will reach the top," showing his determination.
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